Marty Joe Murray

Marty Murray was born in Chicago, Illinois. He earned a bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale and a graduate degree from the University of Missouri. His career experience includes working as a senior project manager and adjunct professor at Harris Stowe State University.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

In 2011 Marty acquired a bachelor of science in Business Management from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. After leading a team of sales associates as general manager his career in corporate America would soon commence. He has worked for companies such as the Federal Reserve Bank, BJC Healthcare, Centene, Express Scripts and World Wide Technology. As an International Project Manager he works on multi-million dollar projects that reach 100,000+ people to making their lives better. In 2015 he was the youngest ever enrolled in the University of Missouri- Columbia’s Executive MBA program.

Everything he has done politically has prepared him to be the next 78th District State Representative. His career in politics began with organizing on campus for President Obama’s first campaign. Since that point he has held political internships, worked as a consumer advocate for the Attorney General Lisa Madigan, community organizer for social issues (raising the minimum wage, reproductive rights, and criminal justice reform), and worked to elect candidates across the region. In addition to informing his community about social issues he has been to the capital to testify in committee hearings on behalf of bills and written to our State Reps, Senators and other elected officials in Jefferson City.

In August 2016 Marty beat a 23 year incumbent for the 7th ward Democratic Committeeman seat. Marty currently serves as State Committeeman representing Missouri’s 5th Senatorial District.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Our youth are the most important aspect of our future. he has shown a commitment to our children in various ways. For several years he hosted a back to school drive to make sure hundreds of students in the 78th district had the proper supplies they need to be prepared for the school year. Every school year he motivates youth to excel academically and have hired tutors to supplement knowledge gaps. When he noticed a gap in the computer science curriculum in SLPS he founded the Roy L Clay Computer Lab. He consistently pushed to get the governance back into the hands of our elected school board. As a legislator no one will fight harder to ensure our public schools are fully funded.There is an all out assault on Democracy. Whether that is expanding Medicaid, creating campaign finance reform or reversing Missouri’s cruel abortion ban the petition process is essential. The initiative petition has been in the Missouri Constitution for more than 100 years. Some politicians and special interest groups do not like citizens having the power to challenge their actions.The initiative petition process has given Missouri citizens the power to reform government, limit political overreach, and protect Missourians through non-partisan ballot measures. As a State Rep I will fight to protect that right. I stand tall with the community, celebrating diversity, equality, and acceptance.Marty has been raised to be a man of character and to hold firm to his commitments. The most important responsibility a legislator has to their constituents is to be accountable. Marty intends to engage with the district via town hall meetings, sending frequent legislative reports, ice cream socials and showing up to neighborhood meetings. He will make it easy for residents to reach the office. Additionally, listening tours will be vital for Marty leading up to the point if he is sworn in. He will use them as an opportunity for residents to submit policy suggestions. Not only will he update everyone to the weekly changes; he will make it easier for residents to support/ oppose legislation as bills work their way through committee.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

The Missouri Legislature has a priority to come after St. Louis. Marty will work tirelessly to ensure St. Louis upholds the ability to govern it's self. Taking control of STLMPD, removing a women's right to choose, and trying to alter the initiative petition so that St.Louis voting power is diluted will be the battle. Gun violence is an epidemic in our country and Missouri's Wild Wild West mentality must end. We need common sense gun laws immediately. The LGBTQIA+ community is currently in the crosshairs of the MOLEG; we must stand as allies.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

P.S. Illinois, The Paul Simon Story, https://www.pbs.org/video/wsiu-events-ps-illinois-paul-simon-story/

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, accountability, empathy, and a commitment to serving the public good are among the most important characteristics for an elected official. Integrity ensures that they act honestly and ethically, maintaining the trust of their constituents. Accountability means being responsible for their actions, decisions, and promises, and being willing to answer to the people they represent. Empathy enables them to understand and connect with the diverse needs and perspectives of their constituents, fostering inclusive and responsive governance. Additionally, a dedication to serving the public good means prioritizing the well-being and interests of the community above personal or partisan gain, and making decisions that benefit society as a whole, both in the short and long term. Overall, these principles are essential for fostering effective and responsible leadership in elected officials.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Core responsibilities of an elected official are representation, legislation, representation. constituent services, budgeting and community engagement. Representation means understanding the interests, concerns, and values of their constituents, acting as their voice in the decision-making process. Understanding the process of creating laws is a foundation. One must participate in the drafting, debating, and passing of laws and policies that govern their jurisdiction, addressing the needs and priorities of the community. Constituent services They provide assistance and support to constituents, helping them navigate government services, addressing their concerns, and advocating for their interests.

Navigating the budgeting and appropriations process is essential. An elected has a vital play a role in crafting and approving budgets, allocating resources to meet the needs of the community and ensuring fiscal responsibility. The most important role to me is community engagement: Electeds must engage with the community through town hall meetings, forums, and other events, soliciting feedback, fostering dialogue, and keeping constituents informed about government activities.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first official job was working fast food at Hardees. That summer in fast food was eye opening to say the least. It might be the hardest job in America.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is the Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison. It is simply the most beautiful book I have ever read. "The end is in the beginning and lies far ahead." Walking through the journey of the narrator trying to find himself was amazing. So many of us can relate. It makes you want to scream I AM A MAN! At times I want to find a hole similar to what he found. The idea of the hole he found is compelling. A place away to flourish in invisibility and discover who you are. Away from the noise, away from the darkness, away from society's constraining depiction of who we should be.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

It is absolutely beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience. I was elected in 2016 and re -elected in 2020 as Committeeman in St. Louis' 7th Ward. During all those years I have been building relationships with House/Senate members that will help me on day one.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

No, My focus is the 78th District.

What is the first bill you would introduce if elected?

A bill that modifies the provisions relating to interest rates on predatory consumer installment loans.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Federal: Congresswoman Cori Bush

State: Fmr. Senator Jamiliah Nasheed, Fmr Senator Maida Coleman, Fmr. 78D State Rep Rasheen Aldridge, 79D State Rep LaKeySha Bosley, 76D State Rep Marlon Anderson, Fmr 76D State Rep Chris Carter Sr.

City: Mayor Tishaura Jones, Recorder of Deeds Michael Butler, President of the Board of Alderman Megan Green, Ald. Laura Keys, Ald. Daniela Velasquez, Elected School Board Donna Jones/ Susan Jones

What committees interest you?

Budget, Education, Crime Prevention & Public Safety, Economic Development, Healthcare Reform